Things to do in Qawra Malta
and dive deeper
Discover the northern part of the islands!
Qawra is a seaside town located within the northern region of Malta. You’ll find that tourists flock to the town during the summer, due to the variety of entertainment options available in the area, as well as the convenient public transport system that connects Qawra to the rest of the island. While things calm down in winter, many travellers still love to visit the idyllic town during this quieter season. This small town boasts great spots for swimming, diving and water sports, fantastic bars and restaurants, and luxurious hotels and resorts! Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly holiday or a romantic getaway for two – Qawra should definitely be on the top of your destination list! So, what are the top things to do in Qawra? Read our guide to find out:
Beaches and water activities
› When in Qawra, it’s impossible to stay away from the sea. Between the months of May and October, you’ll find many locals heading down to one of the beaches in Qawra and the neighbouring towns of Bugibba and St Paul’s Bay for a swim.
› With so many days of sunshine throughout the year, there are numerous activities that can be done by the sea, such as water sports and scuba diving. Diving in Qawra is very popular, as there are several diving schools and diving sites in the area!
› When in Qawra, you could also easily travel to other beaches in the northern part of Malta, such as the popular Golden Bay or Ghadira Bay, or take a day trip to the island of Gozo!
Activities and entertainment
› The Qawra seafront is a perfect place to take a morning or evening walk and enjoy the picturesque views of the northern coast of Malta. It’s also ideal for running, so pack your running shoes and keep fit during your holiday!
› Speaking of fitness, you can also find an indoor gym and squash court at the AX Sunny Coast Resort & Spa Leisure Club. Complete with an indoor pool, outdoor pool and spa – this is the perfect place to have fun, exercise and unwind!
› Book a beauty treatment or spa day at AX Sunny Coast Leisure Club or AX ODYCY. Facials, massages, manicures, haircuts – you name it. Treat yourself during your holiday!
› If it’s raining but you still want to be close to the sea, then you can visit the Malta National Aquarium. A fun day out for both adults and children, the aquarium is home to many different local and exotic species of fish, reptiles, amphibians and marine life!
› If you love classic cars, then make sure to pay a visit to the Malta Classic Car Museum in Qawra. One man’s hobby led him to collecting over 100 classic cars, which are all now proudly displayed in a unique museum, for all those who share his passion!
› In Qawra, you will also find the Salina National Park and Salt Pans. This area consists of an eco-friendly park, complete with a children’s play area, as well as a large area of saline marshland and saltpans that were introduced by the Phoenicians!
› Within the Salina National Park lies the Kennedy Grove Memorial, built in honour of ex-American President John F. Kennedy. This area is a popular place for families to enjoy the great weather, have picnics or just relax in the natural surroundings.
› Café del Mar is one of the top party destinations on the island. During the summer, the infinity pool area doubles as a dancefloor, as top international DJs make their way to the sunny island to get the party started! During the daytime, visitors can just sip on a cocktail and enjoy the stunning scenery of the Mediterranean Sea.
› The Malta Summer Carnival also takes place in Bugibba during the month of August. Here, you can see locals climb the traditional ‘Gostra’ – a large pole covered in lard over the sea – to try capture the flag attached to the end of it!
› From Qawra, it’s also easy to travel to Popeye Village and spend a day at the original Film Set of the 1980s musical!
Drinking and dining in Qawra
› #GetCheeky at the Cheeky Monkey Gastropub – one of the leading bars on the island, located right on the Qawra seafront. The cheeky atmosphere is the perfect place for fun-loving guests to indulge in great food, naughty drinks and music!
› Enjoy a delicious meal at one of the several restaurants on the Qawra promenade. Luzzu Restaurant is the top choices for authentic Mediterranean cuisine, where you can choose between pizza, pasta, salads and more!
› The Bugibba Square is a popular spot for drinking and dining. There are several bars and restaurants located in the square, which is always bustling – especially in summer!
History and culture
› Since Qawra is a seaside town, there are a few watchtowers located on the coast that were built to protect the island from invasion. One of these towers is the Wignacourt Tower – the oldest surviving tower in Malta – which was completed in 1610. It’s now open as a museum!
› Around the year 1638, the Order of the Knights of St John also built the Qawra Tower, located at the tip of Qawra Point. The tower acted as a medieval watch post, commanding the entrance to St Paul’s Bay and Salina Bay. The tower is part of a communication line that allowed messages to be passed on from Valletta, all the way to Gozo! Nowadays, the small tower and battery are used as a restaurant known as Ta’ Fra Ben (which is also a Reggae bar!).
› The parochial church of Qawra is a modern-style church designed by architect Richard England. It is dedicated to St Francis of Assisi and the town feast is celebrated on the 1st of September. Maltese ‘festas’ are a primarily religious celebration, but you’ll find crowds gathering to enjoy the traditional delicacies and watch the fireworks displays in the streets.